Baptism into Trinity affirmed; immersion in water required; apostolic practice foundation
Christadelphians affirm Matthew 28:19 as establishing baptism in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as the proper form. Baptism by immersion in water is practiced and understood as the mode commanded by Christ. Despite their non-Trinitarian theology, Christadelphians maintain the Trinitarian baptismal formula, understanding it as invoking the three persons of God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) as understood in Scripture, even if not as three co-equal divine persons.
Baptism is understood as a crucial act of obedience, identification with Christ's death and resurrection, and commitment to the faith. Christadelphians practice believer's baptism—baptism of those who have made a conscious profession of faith—and understand this as the New Testament norm. The formula is apostolic and authoritative.
Key Distinctions
- Baptismal formula:
- Baptism mode:
- full immersion in water required
- Baptism recipients:
- baptism of professed believers, not infants
Scripture References
Sources
- Christadelphian Statement of Faith on baptism
- Christadelphian teachings on baptismal practice